India showcases BharatNet and emerging technology agenda at ITU conference

DOHA: India has showcased its digital connectivity initiatives and emerging technology priorities at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 (PP-26) in Doha, highlighting its efforts to bridge the digital divide and strengthen global cooperation on cybersecurity.

Dr Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Union Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, presented India’s approach to digital inclusion, technology development and cybersecurity during a high-level discussion on emerging technologies at the conference.

Highlighting the continuing global digital divide, the minister noted that approximately 2.2 billion people worldwide remain offline. Against this backdrop, he highlighted India’s investment of around USD 15 billion in BharatNet, the country’s flagship initiative to extend broadband connectivity to rural areas.

He also drew attention to the Samriddh Gram Kendras, which have received recognition through the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) awards. These centres provide rural communities with access to essential services, including healthcare, agricultural advisory services, banking facilities and government certificates.

India outlines emerging technology priorities

The minister outlined India’s priorities in emerging technologies, including affordable artificial intelligence computing for innovators, AI models developed in Indian languages and the establishment of quantum research centres.

He also highlighted the country’s network of 100 5G use-case laboratories, aimed at developing skilled human resources and encouraging innovation through practical applications of next-generation telecommunications technology.

India’s regulatory modernisation efforts and India 6G Vision were also highlighted as part of its preparations for the convergence of telecommunications networks, artificial intelligence and satellite technologies.

Emphasising the need for greater participation by developing countries in shaping global technology standards and spectrum policies, the minister said these nations should have a meaningful role in influencing technological developments rather than remaining only consumers of emerging technologies.

India calls for international cooperation against cyber threats

Cybersecurity and cross-border digital fraud also featured prominently in the minister’s engagements at PP-26.

During the conference, Dr Pemmasani held bilateral meetings with delegations from Malaysia, Iran and Uzbekistan. Discussions covered cross-border cyber fraud, protection of digital infrastructure and cooperation in quantum technologies.

Sharing India’s experience in combating digital financial fraud, the minister highlighted that alerts issued to banks had helped prevent potential financial losses exceeding ₹5,000 crore.

Emphasising the need for coordinated international action, he said cyber threats do not respect national borders and that international cooperation must similarly transcend geographical boundaries.

He also stressed the importance of countries sharing best practices and working together to strengthen their digital infrastructure against evolving cyber threats.

The ITU Plenipotentiary Conference is the United Nations specialised agency’s highest decision-making body. It brings together member states to determine the organisation’s strategic direction and establish priorities for the development of global telecommunications and information and communication technologies.

India’s participation at PP-26 reflects its efforts to position itself as an active contributor to global discussions on digital connectivity, emerging technologies, telecommunications standards and cybersecurity.